Suspect charged after deadly Norfolk shooting

NORFOLK, Va. - A man is in custody after a deadly shooting in the 1300 block of Olinger Street Tuesday night.

Dispatchers received the call at 8:10 p.m. When police arrived at the scene, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Keshawn Alexander.

Keshawn Alexander

Neighbors told News 3's Anthony Sabella there was an argument before shots were fired.

Joseph Burke Jr., 38, was taken into custody at the scene. He was charged with second degree murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

Police are working to find out what led to the shooting, which is being classified as a homicide. Investigators are not looking for any other suspects at this time and say there is no public threat.

On Wednesday, it was revealed that Alexander was a senior at Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk. Norfolk Public Schools issued the following statement after learning of his death:

This has been an extremely trying week for Norfolk Public Schools (NPS). The passing of a student is never easy to deal with. We are deeply saddened and heartbroken to learn of this untimely death. Keshawn Alexander will be remembered by his family, friends and the NPS community. We send our sincerest condolences and thoughts to all who are affected by this loss.

Additionally, the following letter from Lake Taylor's principal was sent home with students:

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,

Today has been an emotional day for us at Lake Taylor High School. We were saddened to hear of the untimely death of one of our seniors. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Norfolk Public Schools has provided psychologists, counselors, and extra support staff to assist students and teachers as we make our way through this difficult time. Words fall short of expressing our sorrow for the loss of our student and friend. It is important that we assist our students with any signs of grief they may display.

Resources are available in our school counseling office to help students and our staff to deal with death. Should you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Dr. Robbin Stratton, our head counselor, or me.

Sincerely,

Latesha N. Wade-Jenkins

Anyone who knows anything about this incident is asked to call the Norfolk Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (1-888-562-5887).